Fresh Eats: Kickstart 2019 with January’s newest eateries

New year, new eats! Looking for something new to hit up this month? January’s about to bring all things delicious, from a restaurant that’s set in a library to a bar that serves whisky by the carafe. Ready to kickstart 2019 right? Read on!

1. Cook & Tras Social Library

Love books as much as you love food? Then this latest addition at Tanjong Pagar will be right up your alley. Cook & Tras Social Library is a bibliophile’s heaven; with its interior walls lined with wood-panelled bookshelves, you’d be tempted to grab a book and retire to the plush armchairs for the day.

The menu here takes its cues from Straits Chinese cuisine and marries the traditional staples with Western techniques to create unique dishes like the Wagyu Reuben Sandwich, a hearty dish of juicy steak between two pieces of grilled bread with a salad on the side. For something a little closer to home, the Laksa is an excellent option. The dish is made with creamy coconut milk stewed with traditional spices and cooked with bouncy noodles. Prefer a tipple instead? The C+T Shakerato is sure to hit the spot. Made with coffee, liquor, and martini, this drink is sure to fuel all that late night reading.

2. Murray Terrace Brasserie

Cook & Tras Social Library isn’t the only new kid on the block at Six Sense. Meet Murray Terrace Brasserie, a cosy restaurant named after the original 1920s moniker of the building which it is located in.

Serving heartwarming Southern European fare, get comfy with the likes of Shepherd’s Pie or Wild Caught Gambas Al Ajillo. Start with a beautiful Heirloom Beetroot Salad, or enjoy the Hand Dived Scallops. If you’re feeling exceptionally famished, the Black Angus MB4 Porterhouse is sure to leave you feeling more than satisfied.

3. Gaston

Say bonjour to Gaston, the latest addition to the slew of outstanding eateries in Keong Saik. Sit back, unwind, and relax when you step into the simple comforts of this bistro, serving heartwarming French fare and a library of Burgundy wines to go with.

Relish in familiar favourites such as Boeuf Bourguignon, the ever-popular beef and red wine stew served with a side of mash potatoes, or the Truite Fumée where sliced smoked trout is treated with a tarragon emulsion. If you’re feeling intimidated by their 350 or so labels, don’t be; the sommelier will help you select the best one that will fit your preference and go well with your meals. Gaston has an extensive wine-by-the-glass selection of up to 15 wines, as well as a rotating ‘Wine Flight of the Week’, so there is always something for everyone.

The next time you’re looking for an intimate night out with your plus one or just a convivial dinner with your friends, be sure to check out Gaston for fun French experience to remember!

4. Preludio

Here’s another fine-dining restaurant to add to your list of must-tries this year. At its core, Preludio dishes out honest, good cooking with a touch of class. Influenced by artistry and simplicity, Chef Fernando’s cuisine is bold yet subtle, creating a beautiful contrast that just works.

Since its opening, Preludio has been serving a Monochrome-inspired menu. Take your pick from a 4-course executive lunch or a 7-course chef’s selection, or pamper yourself with a 6- or 8-course dinner.

5. Torio Japanese Restaurant

We can never get enough of Japanese cuisine, which is why we were excited to hear that Torio Japanese Restaurant opened its doors in Telok Ayer. This sushiya stays true to Japanese roots, keeping its interiors and ambiance simple and minimalistic.

If you’re around the area for lunch, pop by and indulge in any of their lunch sets. We’re fond of their Chirashi Lunch Set, featuring fresh fatty tuna and salmon chunks as well as generous helpings of ikura roe and uni toppings on a bed of fresh Japanese rice. There’s also a lot of buzz about their omakase offerings, featuring generous servings of fresh ingredients from Japan at a reasonable price.

Find it at 10 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069251Click here for more information.

6. Magosaburo

What if you could have all the finest Wagyu from Japan, all in one place? Then you should add Magosaburo to your list of restaurants to try this month!

Serving a handpicked selection of the finest Wagyu, you’d be hard-pressed to find another Japanese restaurant that offers such a wide variety of quality cuts done to your liking. Whether you like it grilled, sukiyaki or shabu-shabu, trust that you’re in good hands here.

Take your pick from the list of champion Miyazaki Wagyu cuts, such as Misuji, Rib Eye Core, Zabuton, and more. The goodness doesn’t just stop there; relish in premium sushi and sashimi, or tuck into one of their signature rice bowls.

7. The Copper Plate

With so many events and communities popping up in Singapore, it comes as no surprise that the little red dot has become known as the leading city for whisky appreciation in the region.

This January, we’ve got our eyes on The Copper Plate, where whisky is served by the carafe (you heard that right!). Taking the reins are the group behind Singapore’s Quaich Bar and ex-William Grand & Sons brand ambassador Matthew Fergusson-Stewart so you can anticipate an experience that’s outside the box.

Of course, the whiskies aren’t the only stars here; The Copper Plate dishes up some pretty amazing dishes as well, such as grilled prawns and barbecued Japanese squid. We can’t think of a better way to end the day than enjoying a dram with your friends over lip-smacking grub.